DETROIT -- The Buffalo Sabres scored the only goal of the second period, just 11 seconds into a power play after Brendan Smith was whistled for high-sticking, as Jamie McBain cut the Detroit Red Wings’ lead to 3-1 after two periods at Joe Louis Arena.
The Red Wings continued to press and generated some scoring chances – David Legwand had at least two that he didn’t bury – but couldn’t build on their 3-0 first-period lead.
The Sabres are still in this one, despite looking they would be blown out after the first period. The Red Wings can’t afford to sit back in the third, a period in which they have struggled, being outscored 85-63. It’s important for Detroit to get the next goal.